UPD Reassures Safety Measures in Response to Recent Facebook Video

The University Police Department recently released two statements addressing more security concerns for today’s protest hosted by the Students Against Social Injustice (SASI) and this weekend’s protests by Confederate 901 and The Highwaymen

Concern spread after Billy Sessions, a leader of the Memphis-based group Confederate 901 and the Hiwaymen—two of the external groups planning to march to campus Saturday—posted threatening messages and brandished an axe in a video on the organization’s Facebook page. Sessions said he planned to make his presence known in Oxford and on the Ole Miss campus Friday. 

“The University Police Department is aware of social media activity that has heightened anxiety related to the march scheduled for Friday afternoon at 3 p.m.,” the release stated. “Related security measures have been taken, and safety remains our first priority.”

Another email to the university community sent at 9 a.m. Friday morning reiterated the same message.

“Please know that University Police are working continuously with state and local authorities in preparation for the student march today, and the march by external groups on Saturday,” the new release stated.

In addition to reassuring security concerns, the message also said SASI’s rally scheduled for 3 p.m. is continuing as scheduled.

According to the release, any counter-protesters will be directed by law enforcement to a designated area within the Grove.

“On Saturday afternoon between 1-5 p.m., we urge everyone to avoid the area of University Avenue and University Circle,” the release stated. “Other areas of campus are not likely to be affected.”

Hottytoddy.com staff report